Valerie Strickland: Owner
&
Manager of Aspire
In her most recent role with Superior Solar USA, she functioned as the Executive of Sales—overseeing all Solar Consultants and the overall sales structure, while also selling full-time and supporting individual clients. Prior to this, she worked in the insurance industry as a top-tier agent, leading from the front within her organization.
Her work has always centered around client relations, retention management, and client satisfaction—quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in every industry she has worked in. She has led and paved the way for record-breaking company accomplishments, including:
- 2nd Place Award Winner of the Greg Welsh Solar Sales Training Conference, 2023
- $1.3 million in personal sales for 2023, followed by $1.6 million in personal sales during 2024—with similar goals set for the medical spa industry
- 22 years of achievement in the customer service industry
As she moved into the second half of 2024, Valerie laid the groundwork to focus on another passion: the health and wellness industry. With her sights specifically set on creating a medi-spa unlike any other, she once again set a goal and committed to making it happen. She brought together key individuals to create a standout medi-spa experience in the region.
Valerie is known for thinking outside the box and pushing the limits—building the connections necessary to thrive, no matter the challenge. With a renewed passion for applying her skillset in a more zen-like atmosphere, she is prepared to make waves.
Her goal? To raise the bar in the Hudson Valley through her premier wellness gardens and spa. She has already secured collaborations with a local restaurant and trusted physicians and plans to continue supporting the tri-state area through her connections and her bold, creative ideas.
If you’re looking for an experience like no other, look no further—because Valerie doesn’t do anything “normal.” Her creativity far exceeds that. She is excited to revolutionize the medical spa industry by intertwining leading medical professionals with state-of-the-art, luxury spa treatments and equipment. Together, they are building a long-term, successful health and wellness business to nurture the heart of the Hudson Valley and the surrounding communities.
Valentino Ascolese: Co-Owner
&
Spa Manager
Valentino Ascolese is a self-made entrepreneur from Brooklyn, New York, who has built a successful career without the benefit of formal education. His journey began by assisting in his family’s business as a young man, where his dedication, hard work, and innovative thinking led to him eventually running the business—accumulating 40 years in the restaurant and hospitality industry. This experience honed his leadership skills and deepened his understanding of operations and customer care.
Outside of his professional life, Valentino enjoys a variety of hobbies, including fishing, boating, and spending quality time with his family—all of which serve as important outlets for relaxation and rejuvenation. His love for family is a key motivator, fueling his drive to provide for those around him.
In addition to his entrepreneurial achievements, Valentino owns and manages a private hotel, overseeing daily operations with a commitment to excellence. He is also an active volunteer with the Red Cross, where he donates blood to help those in need.
Fluent in both English and Italian, Valentino’s personal health and wellness journey inspired him to open Aspire, a wellness venture focused on helping individuals achieve their full potential. Drawing from his own experiences and the challenges he has overcome, Valentino’s vision for Aspire is to guide others toward holistic well-being and personal growth.
With a lifetime of business acumen, a passion for helping others, and a commitment to his community, Valentino Ascolese continues to inspire and uplift those around him.
